If you are new to couponing, you have probably already discovered that there are lots of ways to go about the business of clipping and saving – but you may have also discovered that there are also lots of mistakes you can make. Here are some of those mistakes.
Help! I’m overwhelmed!
Many who are just starting out with using coupons try to do too much, too soon, and they wind up getting so overwhelmed that they give up. Don’t give up. The easiest way to ease into is to pick just one store, grocery or other type, and focus only on it. Spend some time learning what that store’s coupon policies are, watch for deals and coupons, and learn to make it work for you in that store alone. Once you get the hang of it, you can add another store or two.
I have lots of coupons, but none of them work for me.
All too often, people clip coupons that they don’t have an immediate use for, and they just give them away or throw them out. Don’t get rid of the ones you don’t think you’ll use. Instead, use them to trade with others to get the ones you truly need.
I have been searching for coupons online and printing all I can find. Is that okay?
If you print every coupon you see, you’ll find that pretty soon you’ve run out of ink and paper. It’s best to instead pay attention to the coupons online and print only what you need.
If I have a coupon for an item, I should buy it, right?
Not so. Just because you have a coupon doesn’t mean you have to use it. Don’t spend money on things you don’t even need just because it’s on sale.
My grocery bill will shrink right away when I start using coupons, right?
Many times, those who are new to using coupons will head out with a fist full of coupons and expect to pay next to nothing for their groceries. But that may not be the case right away. Stick to your plan and you’ll soon see significant savings.
All I have to do is hand the coupons to the cashier, right?
Very wrong. You need to watch the cashier to be sure all your coupons are scanned properly. Human error could cost you money.
Bear in mind that when you are first beginning to use coupons, you’re going to make mistakes – so prepare to operate with a learning curve. But with time, you’ll get the hang of things and will save like a pro.
Guest post provided by Coupon Circus. Offering Overstock coupons for maximum online savings.
Hi, I’m Cathy! I’m a former career-driven professional turned stay-at-home mom. Living on one salary has its challenges, but it is possible to live the good life while spending less. Cool to be Frugal is all about how we’re thriving, not just surviving, on a single income.
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Great tips! It’s so true about watching the cashier with coupons. Often times coupons stick together! Plus at stores like Walmart it may prompt the cashier to verify it’s a valid coupon amount – sometimes making them skip a coupon or think a coupon is not valid. Watch carefully and check your receipt!